Caring for working dogs
The Truth About Feline Flu — How Serious Should You Take It?
Jose Reid
As a cat parent, it's normal to worry about your feline's health. One of the illnesses that may concern you is the feline flu. But just how serious is this condition? Is it something that you should panic about?
What Is Feline Flu?
Feline flu is a contagious respiratory illness that affects cats of all ages and breeds. It's caused by two viruses- Feline Calicivirus (FCV) and Feline Herpesvirus (FHV). It's spread through contact with bodily fluids, such as sneezing, coughing, and sharing litter boxes with infected cats. Although it's not fatal, it can cause severe symptoms such as sneezing, fever, loss of appetite, and breathing difficulties, especially in kittens, senior cats, or cats with a weakened immune system.
What Should You Do If You Suspect It?
If you suspect that your cat has the flu, it's crucial to visit the vet immediately to prevent the illness from worsening. The vet may recommend a series of treatments, such as antibiotics or antiviral medications, to reduce symptoms and prevent secondary infections. In severe cases, your cat may need hospitalisation to receive IV fluids and oxygen therapy to support their respiratory system.
Can You Prevent It?
Preventing feline flu is better than treating it. You can reduce the chances of your cat contracting the disease by ensuring proper vaccination against both FHV and FCV. It's also essential to keep your cat away from other sick cats and wash your hands after interacting with them. Additionally, make sure that your cat is living in a stress-free and healthy environment, eats a balanced diet, and maintains good hygiene practices, such as cleaning the litter box regularly.
What Else Should You Know?
It's important to note that some cats may carry the virus without showing symptoms, such as sneezing or coughing. The cat still carries and may spread the illness to other cats, making it more challenging to control the spread. This is why annual vet check-ups are crucial to monitor your cat's health regularly, and if there is any suspicion of feline flu, the vet may recommend further testing.
The Takeaway
Feline flu may not be fatal, but it can cause severe distress to your feline friend, especially if left untreated. Understanding the symptoms and causes of this condition is crucial to take the necessary steps to prevent it from affecting your cat. Always remember that prevention is better than cure, so make sure to vaccinate your cat against feline flu, keep them away from sick cats, and maintain good hygiene practices. If you notice any of the symptoms in your cat, visit the vet immediately and follow their recommendations. With proper care and attention, your cat can go back to their healthy and happy self in no time.
Share
We've always had a large property and our dogs are working dogs. They like to have freedom to run around and play with each other as well as helping us round up the sheep at the end of the day. We don't coddle the dogs by any means, but we do care for them deeply and want them to stay healthy. Sometimes our dogs do get into scrapes and do some silly things, like last year when my older dog ate some baited meat from a fox trap, and do need vet care. This blog has some tips on getting veterinary care for your beloved animals.